I’d like to start by thanking Doron for filling in for me. Yesterday was my birthday and I was out Sunday night celebrating. I was in no state to type up a Stretty Stories, and Doron did a wonderful job in my absence. That said, I’m now starting finals week and short on time, so I’ll have to keep this short. In today’s news Burma’s junta leader wanted to buy United, Sir Alex hopes to avoid Barcelona, Chicharito talks about the United family, and Michael Owen will not be risked.
Burma’s junta leader tried to buy United – Telegraph
According to WikiLeaks, Than Shwe – Burma’s junta leader – was encouraged by his grandson to make a $1 billion bid for Manchester United in 2009. Instead, he opted to form a Burma football league. I honestly have no idea what to make of this. I don’t know enough about Burma or Shwe to provide decent insight. Shwe is reportedly a United fan, which some supporters believe should be a requirement for the next owner of the club. At this point, I’d like to think nobody could be worse than the Glazers. That said, it really doesn’t matter at this point because nothing ever came from it.
Sir Alex doesn’t fancy Barca knockout clash – Daily Mirror
A point against Valencia today would assure United the top spot in Group C. Sir Alex Ferguson is hoping to finish top of the group to avoid Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich in the Round of 16. I wouldn’t necessarily say I’m scared of any of these teams. I think United is certainly a contender regardless of the opposition. That said, who wouldn’t want to have the easiest possible route the final? If we could avoid especially Barcelona in the next round, that’d be fantastic news. After Barcelona’s demolition of Real Madrid, they obviously look a threat and it’d be best to avoid them for as long as possible.
Hernandez hails United ‘family’ – Sky Sports
Javier Hernandez has enjoyed his new “big family” at Manchester United. Hernandez – nicknamed Chicharito – joined the club this summer and instantly became a cult hero. He’s already proven to be a good signing early this season with seven goals, second only to Dimitar Berbatov. One of the reasons I’ve grown to love United is the family atmosphere. The club has always had a family vibe to it from the players to supporters. Legends like Sir Bobby Charlton are still around the club to this day, and I really respect how loyal United remain to their own. Even with the fans, when I see someone in a United shirt on the street there’s an instant connection. A lot of times I’ll even stop and talk about the club for a few minutes. We’re all just a very close-knit group and that makes this club special in my eyes. I’m glad Chicharito recognizes that, and it’s good to see how quickly he’s adapted to being part of the United family.
Fergie won’t risk Michael Owen – Sky Sports
Michael Owen has returned to training, but Sir Alex Ferguson will be taking no risks on the veteran striker in today’s Champions League clash. Owen has only recently returned to training, and Sir Alex would like to see him build up fitness before any return to competitive action. The gaffer has made it clear he wants the top spot in the group, so I’d expect a strong team to face Valencia. With Wayne Rooney, Dimitar Berbatov, Javier Hernandez, and Kiko Macheda all available there is no reason to risk Owen. The 30-year-old striker has been prone to injury throughout his career, so I absolutely agree with Sir Alex’s decision. It is best to get Owen to full fitness rather than risk another injury.
Discuss all today’s news and rumours in the forum
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I’d say bring barca! Bring on Madrid and bring on bayern.barca are so cocky after beating a brittle Madrid.as for Madrid,well let’s just say I have been wanting a match against for the last 5-6 years.bayern needs no talk,the players and the club want revenge for past year.I know fergie is respectful but the reason he wants to avoid barca is because of domestic matters than anything.we have a great,great chance of winning the league & fergie dosen’t want big European ties in the early stages of the champs league.
No probs Kyle, good luck in the exams